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ORD → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Left Side of the Plane
The left side offers the most consistent views of the spectacular Southwest geology, including the Grand Canyon, Lake Mead, and a stunning approach over the Los Angeles basin.
Search flights from ORD to LAX
Grand Canyon National Park
Unrivaled views of the North Rim and the winding Colorado River as you cross into Arizona.
Lake Mead
The stark blue waters of the massive reservoir contrasting against the Mojave Desert's red rocks.
Hoover Dam
A clear view of the engineering marvel situated on the border of Nevada and Arizona.
San Bernardino Mountains
Rugged, high-altitude peaks that mark the final descent into the Southern California region.
Inland Empire
The sprawling urban development of Southern California becoming visible during the final approach.
Book an afternoon flight to have the sun behind you, illuminating the Grand Canyon's colors. On the descent into LAX, the left side typically provides better views of the San Bernardino mountains and the vast sprawl of the LA basin. Sit away from the wing to ensure the vertical depth of the canyons is fully visible.
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Get eSIMs for United StatesChicago Skyline
Dramatic views of the Willis Tower and Lake Michigan immediately following takeoff from O'Hare.
Colorado Rockies
Continuous vistas of the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Front Range and central Rocky Mountains.
Canyonlands and Arches
The unique, oxidized red rock formations and plateaus of eastern Utah are often visible to the north.
Las Vegas Strip
Depending on the specific flight path, the glittering casinos and high-rises can be seen in the distance.
San Gabriel Mountains
Close-up views of the sharp peaks that border the northern edge of the Los Angeles area.
The right side is superior for the departure from Chicago, especially if the plane turns west over Lake Michigan. It also provides the best perspective of the high Rockies. For night flights, this side often catches the glow of Las Vegas to the north. Use a polarising filter on your camera to cut through the atmospheric haze over the mountains.
Book Hotels in Los AngelesDistance: 2,802 km (1,741 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 3 hrs 44 min
Departure: ORD (41.9786, -87.9048)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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